Boeing has announced significant orders for its 787 Dreamliner and 777 double-aisle aircraft, securing commitments for up to 80 planes from Japan Airlines and Korean Air. This announcement, made on Monday, indicates that Boeing is responding to competitive pressures from Airbus, which had previously made inroads with these airlines.
Brad McMullen, head of Boeing’s sales operations, expressed appreciation for Japan Airlines’ continued partnership with Boeing, highlighting their decision to enhance their fleet with the 787 Dreamliner.
The announcement coincides with the start of the Farnborough International Airshow, a key event for the aerospace industry. Japan Airlines has confirmed an order for 10 Dreamliners, with an option for an additional 10. Meanwhile, Korean Air ordered 20 units of the 777-9 model and 20 of the 787-10, with the possibility of ordering 10 more 787-10s.
This order comes after reports earlier in the year indicated Japan Airlines had purchased 11 A321neo jets from Airbus, marking a shift in their single-aisle aircraft purchases. Similarly, Airbus had made sales of wide-body jets to Korean Air, which has traditionally relied on Boeing for the majority of its fleet.
Stephanie Pope, head of Boeing’s commercial airplanes division, expressed gratitude that Korean Air has chosen Boeing’s latest models to expand its operations. She emphasized the long-standing relationship between Boeing and Korean Air, stating that the 777X and 787 Dreamliner will align with the airline’s sustainability and growth goals.